
MetaMask® Wallet: Unlock Web3 Crypto Wallet
The MetaMask® Wallet: Your Digital Identity for Web3
The MetaMask® Wallet is a non-custodial cryptocurrency wallet and gateway to decentralized applications (dApps). Available as a browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Brave) and mobile app, it empowers you to manage digital assets, swap tokens, and interact with blockchain ecosystems like Ethereum, Polygon, and BNB Chain – all while retaining full control of your private keys.
Core Features & Capabilities
FunctionDescriptionMulti-Chain Access50+ networks including Ethereum, Arbitrum, Optimism, and AvalanchedApp BrowserDirect access to DeFi (Uniswap), NFTs (OpenSea), and metaverses (Decentraland)Built-in SwapExchange 18,000+ tokens with MetaMask® Swap (0.875% fee)Portfolio TrackingReal-time balance/value tracking across chainsHardware IntegrationConnect Ledger®/Trezor® for air-gapped security
Getting Started in 4 Steps
- Download:
- Browser: Install MetaMask Chrome Extension via Chrome Web Store
- Mobile: Get MetaMask Wallet app on iOS or Android
- Always use official sources: MetaMask.com
- Create Wallet:
- Click "Create a New Wallet"
- Set a strong local password (encrypts device data)
- Backup Secret Recovery Phrase:
- Write 12 words manually on paper
- Store offline – never digitally
- Confirm phrase order
- MetaMask® Login:
- Browser: Click extension icon → Enter password
- Mobile: Open app → Input password or biometrics
- Add Networks/Tokens:
- Default: Ethereum Mainnet
- Add networks (e.g., Polygon): Settings → Networks → Add Network
- Add tokens: "Import tokens" via contract address
Security Architecture
- Private Key Control: Keys encrypted locally – never shared with MetaMask®
- Recovery Phrase: Only backup for wallet restoration (store in fireproof safe)
- Phishing Protection: Built-in scam detection and contract warnings
- Permission Management: Revoke dApp access anytime (Settings → Connected Sites)
Troubleshooting Essentials
IssueSolutionExtension Not LoadingUpdate browser; Disable conflicting extensions"Invalid Password"Restore wallet via recovery phraseMissing TransactionsCheck correct network; Add custom RPCPending SwapAdjust slippage (Advanced settings)
MetaMask® Wallet FAQ
Q1: Is the MetaMask Chrome Extension safe?
A: Yes when downloaded from official stores. Enable auto-lock (Settings → Security & Privacy) and avoid phishing sites mimicking MetaMask®.Q2: Can I use the same wallet on mobile and desktop?
A: Yes! Sync via:- Mobile: Settings → Advanced → Sync with Extension
- Scan QR code from desktop extension
Q3: I lost my recovery phrase! Can I recover funds?
A: No. Your phrase is the only backup. Without it, funds are permanently inaccessible.Q4: How do I add Polygon to MetaMask®?
A: 1) Open extension → Click network dropdown2) Select "Add network" → Enter:
- Network Name: Polygon Mainnet
- RPC URL: https://polygon-rpc.com/
- Chain ID: *137*
- Symbol: MATIC
- Block Explorer: https://polygonscan.com/
Q5: Why use MetaMask® over exchange wallets?
A: Full asset control, lower fees, direct dApp access, and privacy. Exchanges can freeze funds.Q6: Can I stake Ethereum in MetaMask®?
A: Not directly. Use MetaMask® to connect to staking dApps (e.g., Lido, Rocket Pool) and sign transactions.